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The outbreak of strangles led to the company in Tain, Easter Ross, operating on a restricted licence while the infection cleared up.

But they say their business is being damaged by welfare campaigners who have accused them of cruelty towards their animals. And the couple claim the group have lodged malicious complaints with the Scottish SPCA.

Animal welfare campaigners say the horses are mistreated

Police have also been drafted in to investigate a series of incidents including the firm’s sign being defaced and their enclosure fences being cut.

Staff also claim they’ve been subjected to verbal abuse and online trolling.

Jan and Graham started the firm 10 years ago with business partner Katie Shepherd. They specialise in long-distance pony tours around the Highlands.

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“Infected animals were kept well away from those who weren’t sick. That didn’t stop some unscrupulous individuals from whipping up hysteria.”

The firm’s ponies were diagnosed with strangles – an infection of the upper respiratory tract – last August. It is the most commonly diagnosed disease affecting horses worldwide and 99 per cent of animals who contract it make a full recovery.

The company, Highlands Unbridled, has been under attack

Highland Council imposed restrictions on the business by suspending the part of their licence that allows them to conduct the long-distance treks.

Graham claims the decision has cost the firm around £60,000. He added: “I just have a huge feeling of injustice. What’s been happening isn’t right